British Couple’s Victorian Home Renovation Turns Into a Mystery Dig
Location: United Kingdom
Property: 145-year-old Victorian house
Owners: Christopher Jones and Paloma Mills
Date of Purchase: August 2023
Property Type: Three-bedroom, abandoned Victorian home
Overview
During renovations of their Victorian home, a British couple uncovered a series of unusual items buried beneath the floorboards. Their discovery has captured public attention and sparked curiosity about the historical significance of the finds.
Discoveries
Initial Find: While installing plumbing for an understairs toilet, the couple uncovered a large bone described as a “chonker,” hidden behind a concrete slab.
Accompanying Items: A 1970s coin and a pair of vintage socks.
Subsequent Finds: Additional bones, including a jawbone and pantyhose, some located near a rat’s nest. These are believed to be animal remains rather than human.
Public Reaction
Instagram Followers: The couple shares their renovation journey on Instagram (@restoringnumberfour). Followers have responded with a mix of concern and fascination.
Comments: Some suggested contacting authorities; others speculated on the historical context of the items.
Humor and Resilience: The couple has joked about turning the home into a “bone museum” despite the unusual finds.
Historical Comparisons
The discovery has drawn parallels to other notable renovation finds, such as a 2022 North Yorkshire case where a couple uncovered 264 gold coins beneath their kitchen floor.
Renovation Status
Jones and Mills continue their renovation efforts, documenting the process online and navigating the surprises of working with a Victorian-era property.